Section CLXXV - Battle between Karna and Ghatotkacha: Description of the fierce combat
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CLXXV including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
The battle between Karna and Ghatotkacha took place at dead of night, with Ghatotkacha appearing in a gigantic, fearsome form. His appearance was terrifying, with his body covered in bristles and his eyes blood-red. Ghatotkacha rode a chariot adorned with bells and banners, driven by a Rakshasa, and his steeds were like raging elephants. He wielded a bow of great power and invoked celestial weapons to combat Karna.
Despite being pierced with numerous arrows by Karna, Ghatotkacha continued to fight fiercely, creating illusions and using powerful weapons. He transformed into various forms, such as a mountain with flowing streams of weapons, and a giant with a hundred heads and stomachs. Karna, skilled in warfare, destroyed Ghatotkacha's illusions and fought back with equal ferocity, destroying his chariot and steeds. The battlefield was filled with the clash of their weapons and the screams of monsters summoned by Ghatotkacha.
Ghatotkacha's rage grew as Karna proved to be a formidable opponent, destroying his illusions and repelling his attacks. Ghatotkacha hurled celestial weapons and summoned a mighty wheel and a dart-cloud to defeat Karna. Despite his efforts, Karna remained steadfast, cutting through Ghatotkacha's weapons and illusions with his own celestial weapons. The intensity of their battle shook the earth, with both warriors displaying incredible skill and power.
Karna, undaunted by Ghatotkacha's onslaught, continued to fight with determination and skill, showcasing his prowess as a warrior. He countered Ghatotkacha's illusions and attacks with precision, destroying his chariot and steeds. Ghatotkacha, in turn, unleashed his full power, creating more illusions and summoning monsters to overwhelm Karna. The battle between the two mighty warriors raged on, with neither giving ground easily.
In the end, Karna emerged victorious, overcoming Ghatotkacha's illusions and weapons with his own skill and strength. Despite Ghatotkacha's fierce fighting and powerful attacks, Karna's prowess as a warrior proved unmatched. The battlefield was strewn with broken chariots, fallen steeds, and the bodies of monsters, a testament to the ferocity of the battle. Karna stood tall and resolute, victorious in his battle against the formidable Rakshasa, Ghatotkacha.
Full English translation:
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Section CLXXV, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CLXXV:
What was the appearance of Ghatotkacha during the battle?
Ghatotkacha was described as gigantic, with blood-red eyes, a coppery hue, and a body covered in bristles. He wore a brass cuirass and had a large, powerful bow. His car was adorned with bells and had a tall standard with blood-red banners.
How did Karna and Ghatotkacha's battle unfold?
Karna and Ghatotkacha engaged in a fierce battle, exchanging powerful shafts and celestial weapons. Ghatotkacha used his illusionary powers to create multiple forms and attack Karna with various weapons. Karna, in turn, displayed his prowess by destroying Ghatotkacha's illusions and striking him with deadly arrows.
Did Ghatotkacha use any supernatural powers in the battle?
Yes, Ghatotkacha invoked celestial weapons, created illusions, and transformed into different forms, including a mountain and a cloud of darts. He also summoned a Rakshasa army, showered stones and trees, and hurled a powerful mace at Karna.
How did Karna respond to Ghatotkacha's attacks?
Karna demonstrated his skill and strength by countering Ghatotkacha's onslaught with his own formidable arrows and weapons. He destroyed Ghatotkacha's illusions, including a dart-cloud and a mountain, and successfully defended himself against the Rakshasa's fierce attacks.
Who emerged victorious in the battle between Karna and Ghatotkacha?
The battle between Karna and Ghatotkacha was intense and evenly matched for a long time. Although both warriors inflicted serious wounds on each other, Karna eventually gained the upper hand by destroying Ghatotkacha's illusions and overpowering him with his skill and arsenal of weapons.
How did the spectators and other warriors react to the combat between Karna and Ghatotkacha?
The spectators, including the Kaurava troops and other warriors, were awed and frightened by the fierce combat between Karna and Ghatotkacha. The Rakshasa's supernatural powers and Karna's valor and strategic prowess impressed and terrified the onlookers, who witnessed a battle of epic proportions.
Daily life: Battle between Karna and Ghatotkacha: Description of the fierce combat:
The epic battle between Karna and Ghatotkacha, as narrated, unfolds a rich tapestry of determination, skill, and the strategic use of resources, offering valuable lessons for our daily lives. At its core, the conflict illustrates the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of daunting challenges. Much like Karna and Ghatotkacha, who relentlessly adapted their strategies and weapons to counter each other's moves, we too must learn to remain flexible and open to change, leveraging our resources and skills to navigate the complexities of life.
The story further underscores the importance of facing our fears head-on. Karna, despite the formidable illusions created by Ghatotkacha, did not flee but instead, confronted each challenge with courage and a clear mind. This teaches us that confronting our fears, rather than avoiding them, is crucial in overcoming obstacles and achieving our goals.
Moreover, the narrative emphasizes the significance of perseverance and hard work. Both warriors, engaged in a fierce duel, showcased their unwavering commitment and effort, reminding us that persistence is key to overcoming adversities. Success often demands consistent effort and the willingness to push through difficult times.
Additionally, the battle highlights the value of strategic thinking and innovation. Karna and Ghatotkacha employed various strategies and weapons, demonstrating that creativity and strategic planning are essential in solving problems and turning situations to your favor.
Lastly, the story reflects on the inevitability of facing challenges and the importance of preparing for them. Just as Karna and Ghatotkacha were prepared for a formidable battle, we too must anticipate challenges and equip ourselves with the necessary tools and mindset to tackle them effectively.
In conclusion, the epic duel between Karna and Ghatotkacha serves as a metaphor for life's struggles, teaching us valuable lessons on resilience, courage, perseverance, strategic thinking, innovation, and preparation. By embodying these qualities, we can navigate life's battles more effectively and emerge victorious against the odds.